Women, youth leaders appeal to NASS to pass reserved seats bill

The Forum of National Women Leaders of Political Parties in Nigeria (NWLFPPN), in collaboration with National Youth Leaders have called on the leadership of the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly to expedite passage of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill currently before it.

Rising from a strategic meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, the women and youth leaders reaffirmed their collective commitment to advancing gender inclusion in governance and politics.

In a joint statement signed by Amina Darasimi Bryhm, the president of the Forum, the leaders described the Reserved Seats Bill as a “national imperative” that would address Nigeria’s long-standing gender imbalance in elective offices and strengthen democracy through inclusive representation.

“Political parties are the gateway to leadership and governance, and as custodians of political participation, we are duty-bound to lead the campaign for equitable representation,” Bryhm said.

The Forum emphasized that women form the backbone of Nigeria’s democracy and must be accorded proportional representation through constitutional reform. It pledged to intensify advocacy and sensitization across political parties to ensure understanding and support for the Bill.

The statement urged members of the National Assembly to “make history” by giving the Bill speedy passage, stressing that “the time for promises is over — the time for action is now.”
It also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Executive Arm of Government to back the proposed law once passed, describing such support as a demonstration of leadership, fairness, and national commitment to inclusion

The Forum said it would continue working with political parties to publicly endorse the Bill and promote internal reforms that advance women’s participation. It also called on civil society groups, traditional rulers, youth organizations, and faith leaders to mobilize in solidarity until the Bill becomes law.

“This is not a fight against men but a call to partnership. Empowering women empowers families and strengthens communities,” the statement read.

The women leaders commended development partners for their ongoing support and urged them to sustain collaboration through advocacy, technical assistance, and empowerment initiatives for women in politics.

Reiterating their stance for equity and progress, the Forum declared that the passage of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill must not be delayed.

“This is not just legislation; it is a rallying point for justice, democracy, and nation-building,” the statement concluded.

Fielding questions from the media on what women were bringing to the table, the President noted that being on the table would ensure that the interests of women, children and persons with disabilities are protected. She however noted that for that to happen “women have to be on the table.”

The women leaders noted that in their efforts to bring women to the table. They were determined to ensure women with capacity and integrity are carefully supported to run in future elections.